Facial exercise program to treat depression
Facial Rehabilitation of Wellbeing in Depression: a Randomized Controled Trial of a Facial Physiotherapeutic Exercise Program in the Treatment of Depression
NA · Zentrum für Angst und Depressionsbehandlung Zürich · NCT03983291
This study is testing a facial exercise program to see if it can help people with mild to moderate depression feel better by relaxing certain facial muscles and strengthening others.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Zentrum für Angst und Depressionsbehandlung Zürich (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Zurich) |
| Trial ID | NCT03983291 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates a physiotherapeutic exercise program aimed at relaxing facial muscles linked to negative emotions and strengthening those associated with positive emotions to alleviate symptoms of depression. Participants will receive instruction from a physiotherapist and practice facial exercises daily for 15 minutes. The approach is based on the facial feedback hypothesis, which suggests that facial expressions can influence emotional states. The goal is to improve overall wellbeing and quality of life for individuals with mild to moderate unipolar depression.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals experiencing mild to moderate unipolar depression who have been on stable treatment for at least six weeks.
Not a fit: Patients with organic mental disorders, substance-induced mental disorders, or those who have undergone cosmetic procedures may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could provide a non-invasive method to reduce depression symptoms and enhance emotional wellbeing.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach is novel, previous studies have indicated that facial feedback mechanisms can influence emotional states, suggesting potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Mild to moderate unipolar depression * Stable treatment for at least 6 weeks Exclusion Criteria: * Organic mental disorders * Mental disorders due to psychoactive substance use * Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders * Previous cosmetic procedures (botulinum toxin, fillers, lifting) * Facial palsy * Facial skin disorders
Where this trial is running
Zurich
- Zentrum für Angst- und Depressionsbehandlung — Zurich, Switzerland (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Patricia Waldvogel, PhD — Zentrum für Angst und Depressionsbehandlung Zürich
- Study coordinator: Patricia Waldvogel, PhD
- Email: PWaldvogel@zadz.ch
- Phone: +41 44 3866600
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Depression